Outer Banks Health is excited to introduce its Community Benefit Grants Program for 2025-2026. This initiative aims to improve healthcare access and provide financial resources to over 30,000 people in need. Since launching in 2006, the program has awarded more than $2.3 million to local organizations.
Here are some of the grant recipients and their projects:
- Beach Food Pantry: Enhancing nutritional education with a focus on healthy eating.
- Cape Hatteras United Methodist Men: Supporting housebound residents in elevated homes.
- Children & Youth Partnership for Dare County: Offering mindfulness programs to students and teachers.
- Community Care Clinic of Dare: Providing care for uninsured and under-insured individuals.
- Cross Roads OBX Association: Assisting those dealing with substance use disorders.
- Dare Arts: Expanding art programs for cancer patients and underserved communities to boost creativity and mental health.
- Dare County Department of Health & Human Services: Running campaigns to reduce behavioral health stigma.
- Transportation Services: Helping patients get to medical appointments.
- Food for Thought: Supplying meals and hygiene items to families facing food insecurity.
- Interfaith Community Outreach: Offering financial help in crisis situations.
- NC MedAssist: Delivering free pharmacy services to patients’ homes.
- North Carolina State University Cooperative Extension: Hosting nutrition camps for youth.
- Room in the Inn: Providing shelter and essentials for those in need.
- Safe House Project: Supporting survivors of trafficking in Dare County.
This program highlights the community’s commitment to improving lives and health outcomes. Experts note that programs like these are crucial, especially in rural areas where healthcare access can be limited. According to the National Rural Health Association, rural communities often face challenges such as fewer healthcare providers and greater distances to care facilities.
Outer Banks Health is a vital resource for the coastal community. With a year-round population of 35,000 that swells to over 250,000 in summer, it provides essential healthcare tailored to the unique needs of both residents and visitors. The organization collaborates with partners like ECU Health and Chesapeake Regional Healthcare to ensure that quality care is accessible right in the community.
These grants are a step toward a healthier, more supportive environment for all who call this area home.
